In today’s fast-paced world, the concept of productivity is constantly undergoing significant transformations. From the ‘Hustle & Grind’ mentality glamorized during the early 2010s to a drastic shift towards what we now call “modern productivity”; characterized by both advantages and disadvantages.
While the Hustle Culture was towards the extreme right and focused more on physical hard work and grit, and less towards the mental aspect of productivity, modern productivity does the opposite.
We’ve been led to implement tons of so-called ‘systems’ which have glamorized productivity in ways more harmful to man than we ever knew. We understand what it’s like to put our mental health in focus.
However, we’re beginning to ignore the physical hard work and effort that we have to put in. This is termed as ‘toxic productivity’ and the sooner we get out of this mentality, the better it will be.
Today, we’ll delve into the nuances of modern productivity, explore alarming statistics about this drastic shift as well as the influence and rise in the number of productivity gurus, and will offer a solution in the form of “mindful productivity.”
1. What is Modern Productivity
Modern productivity is the ability to produce high-quality output efficiently and effectively, using the latest tools and technologies. It is characterized by a focus on flexibility, adaptability, and innovation.
Automation plays a big role in this new philosophy and productivity experts have shifted their focus to tools like Notion & Slack, to pretty much automate the majority of our lives. However, too much automation is actually making us lazy, and we’re beginning to fall into the trap of ‘instant gratification’; we think we just need to set up a Notion Dashboard or run some Facebook Ads to our new dropshipping business, and our lives will be set.
In a nutshell, we’re led to believe that being ‘productive’ is our only route to success and spend days setting up our Google Calendar or Notion Dashboard, yet the final action remains nil.
1.1 Characteristics of Modern Productivity
Modern productivity is marked by the relentless pursuit of efficiency, often at the expense of work-life balance. It’s about doing more in less time, fueled by technology, multitasking, and a constant drive to achieve. It’s characterized by three things:
- Flexibility: Modern workers need to be able to adapt to changing priorities and work from anywhere.
- Adaptability: Modern workers need to be able to learn new skills quickly and stay up-to-date on the latest technologies.
- Innovation: Modern workers need to be able to think creatively and come up with new ideas to solve problems.
That being said, there are some advantages to going this route, alongside some very disturbing flaws.
1.3 Benefits of Modern Productivity
- Increased productivity: Modern tools and technologies can help workers to automate tasks and work more efficiently.
- Improved quality: Modern tools and technologies can help workers to produce higher-quality output by providing them with real-time feedback and insights.
- Greater job satisfaction: Modern workers are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs if they have the flexibility, adaptability, and resources they need to be successful.
1.3 Flaws of Modern Productivity
- Work-life balance: Modern workers often struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance, as they are constantly connected to their work devices and email.
- Stress and burnout: Modern workers are also at risk of stress and burnout, as they are often under pressure to produce more and more work in less and less time.
- Inequality: Modern productivity can also lead to inequality, as those who have access to the latest tools and technologies are able to produce more output and earn more money.
2. The numbers paint a dark picture
Despite the many benefits of modern productivity, there is also a growing body of evidence that suggests that it is having a negative impact on the mental and physical health of workers. For example:
Gallup’s research reveals that the average American works 47 hours a week today, compared to 35 hours in the 1970s.
The American Institute of Stress provided another shocking stat which revealed that 63% of workers want to quit their jobs due to work-related stress.
Therefore, the striking question is. If we’re trying to become so productive, why are these numbers so high? The truth isn’t that we don’t work; rather, we’re being ‘over productive’ relying too much on tools and automation and struggling to make up the rest of the equation, which is all about effort and hard work.
3. Gurus and How Productivity is Glamorized
The rise in ‘modern productivity’ in our society has been down, in part, to the sheer number of so-called gurus in the market today.
There is a thriving industry of productivity gurus today who sell books, courses, and other products that promise to help people to be more productive. This advice is helpful and works in most cases. However, the way it’s marketed is what makes the whole process so toxic.
The gurus promote too much content that is unrealistic in daily life and glamorizes the idea of disconnecting oneself from all that’s happening around us.
The problem is; there’s no cookie-cutter formula for what will actually make us more productive. Each one of us has unique lifestyles, circumstances, and mindsets. There needs to be an approach that is personalized and takes into account a variety of different lifestyles to even be worth all the effort.
Fortunately for you, ProductivePreneur is doing that, cutting out the fluff and doing the research to promote strategies that actually will work for all of us. (link to homepage)
Again it is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to productivity. It is also necessary to realize that productivity is not the only thing in life. We need to have a healthy work-life balance and to make time for the things that are important to us outside of work.
4. How to Get Out of the Trap and Focus on Real-World Changes
If you are feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to be productive, there are a few things you can do to get out of the trap and focus on real-world changes:
- Set realistic goals: Don’t try to do too much at once. Focus on setting realistic goals that you can achieve without sacrificing your personal life or your well-being.
- Take breaks: It is important to take breaks throughout the day, even if it is just for a few minutes. Get up and move around, or step outside for some fresh air.
- Delegate tasks: If you have the ability to delegate tasks, do it! This will free up your time so that you can focus on the most important things.
- Say no: It is okay to say no to new projects or commitments if you are already feeling overwhelmed.
- Take care of yourself: Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. Taking care of your physical and mental health will help you to be more productive in the long run.
5. ‘Mindful Productivity’ is the New Dawn
We’re offering a refreshing alternative in what we term ‘Mindful productivity’’.
Instead of disconnection, mindful productivity encourages individuals to be fully present in their tasks, fostering a deeper connection with their work.
This approach also focuses on setting realistic goals, managing energy levels, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. It’s also important to strike a balance between reality and imagination; it’s good to get lost in the latter every once in a while, and gain some inspiration. However, there’s more benefit to living in the present and making every second count.
6. Conclusion
We hope you liked the article for today. Mindful productivity is a work in progress but with a real movement and support behind the cause, we can cause a new dawn to come about.
To explore a more balanced and mindful approach to productivity, we invite you to subscribe to the ProductivePreneur Newsletter.
Every week, we will be sending a slew of insights, practical tips, and strategies for achieving productivity that truly enhances your life, rather than diminishing it.
Join our community and embark on a journey towards a more fulfilling and sustainable way of working and living.
Zane James is a Digital Marketer who runs a freelance marketing practice alongside growing ProductivePreneur; a free newsletter for Entrepreneurs, Marketers & Designers helping them to reach peak productivity in a realistic and mindful way.